Vancouver has a wide range of attractions that cater for most tastes and ages. The natural beauty of the area has been taken into consideration with the city planning. There are several notable parks to relax in including Stanley Park with its beautiful surroundings and many gardens. The H.R. Macmillan Space Centre and the Aquarium are great places for the family, while those with an interest in architecture will appreciate Christ Church Cathedral and the Museum of Anthropology.

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Vancouver's oldest tourist attraction, the stunning Suspension Bridge stretches for 450 feet across and 230 feet above the Capilano River. It takes you into a west coast rainforest and the park's newest attraction, Treetops Adventure. Seven suspension bridges have been constructed over 100 feet high up in the evergreens. There are guided nature tours and a Kids' Rainforest Explorer programme also available. North America's largest private collection of First Nations story poles are set amidst some beautiful gardens. Phone: +1 604 985 7474; website: www.capbridge.com.

Dr Sun Yat-Sen Garden
A classical Chinese style garden modelled on those found during the Ming Dynasty. This is the first of its kind to be found outside of China and is a unique cultural experience. The gardens are designed around the harmony of four main elements: water, rock, plants and architecture. The asymmetrical arrangement of plants and rocks, together with the winding paths and interesting buildings creates the perfect balance and compliments the rhythms of nature. There are tours available for visitors to learn more about the gardens. Phone: +1 604 662 3207; website: www.vancouverchinesegarden.com.

Hells Gate Airtram
This is located in the beautiful Fraser Canyon, where 1,100 miles of the Fraser River are forced through a 100 foot wide passage. It was first written about in the early 19th century by explorer Simon Fraser, who named this place ‘Hell’s Gate’. Over 200 million gallons of water squeeze through the gorge per minute, which is approximately twice the amount of Niagara Falls. A cable car takes you safely over the narrowest part of the gorge for a perfect view. There is also a suspension bridge and observation deck where you might get to witness brave rafters attempting to navigate the river. Facilities include a fudge factory, where there are more than 100 flavours of fudge made on site and the Salmon House Restaurant, serving freshly caught salmon from the river. Phone: +1 604 867 9277; website: www.hellsgateairtram.com.

Stanley Park
Stanley Park is the third largest in North America and recognised as one of the best in the world. It is a top attraction with an estimated eight million visitors every year who come to enjoy the natural setting and many recreational facilities. The park borders the downtown area and sprawls for over 1,000 acres, consisting of old cedar and fir trees and an abundance of wildlife. There is a large collection of memorials and plaques, including statues of the poet Robert Burns, Olympic runner Harry Jerome and Lord Stanley. A miniature railway was built in the 60s, and caters mainly for the kids. Those looking for leisure facilities are well catered for with an 18-hole Pitch and putt golf course, tennis courts and a swimming pool at Second Beach. The five mile long seawall path circles the park and is regularly used by cyclists, rollerbladers and walkers.

Vancouver Aquarium
Located in the central Stanley Park, the Aquarium has more than 70,000 creatures in a number of different galleries. It is internationally recognised for marine mammal rescue and places professional naturalists into the galleries to interpret animal behaviours. Apart from the dolphins and beluga whales, there are hands-on animal encounters and trainer tours. Phone: +1 604 659 3474; website: www.vanaqua.org.

Vancouver Lookout
This is a great place to visit at the beginning of your trip to take in Vancouver and its surroundings. The external glass elevator whisks you to the top in under 50 seconds, from where you will have a breathtaking 360° view of the city, Vancouver Island and the North Shore Mountains. Guides are available for complimentary tours around the deck to learn more about the numerous attractions and sights throughout the city. When you have finished looking around, relax in the lounge with a drink or snack. Admission tickets allow you to return later in the day, if you want to see the sunset or the city by night. Phone: +1 604 689 0421; website: www.vancouverlookout.com.

Grab your skis or snowboard and head to one of the best resorts in North America; Whistler Blackcomb. You will find miles of perfectly groomed slopes suitable for all abilities. If you don't want to travel so far, then try the less-reliable slopes at Cypress, Grouse and Seymour.

Jump onboard one of the harbour cruises and enjoy a unique Vancouver experience. Experience the panoramic views of the city skyline and the nearby mountains. Options include a luncheon cruise up the Indian Arm and the sunset dinner cruise.

Relax in the beautiful Minter Gardens, which are located at the bottom of the 7000 foot Mount Cheam. Over 30 acres and 11 themed gardens provide an exquisite setting and a perfect break from the bustle of the city.

Stroll around the huge grounds of Stanley Park or take part in one of the many recreational activities on offer. The huge park is spread over 1,000 acres and has a 5 mile long circular path, ideal for walkers and skaters.

Take a trip round the historic Hastings Mill where, in 1867, Captain Edward Stamp began Stamps Mill on what is now Dunlevy Street. A settlement gradually development and would later become known as Vancouver.

Take your camera and witness the spectacular views from the Vancouver lookout. Guides will give you a free introduction from the lookout tower on the city's attractions.